9. Mr. KENNEDY JONESasked the First Lord of the Admiralty if he can state the number of the State manufactories started since the War now occupied or retained by his Department; whether he will indicate in each case the nature of the work which is now being carried on in these manufactories; and if he will inform the House how many factories have been disposed of since the Armistice to private interests?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAWe have started three factories; one for the manufacture of cordite; one mainly engaged upon the out-turn of projectiles, and the third a gun factory. We retain these three. The last of the three—the gun factory—is not now manufacturing guns, but is being retained temporarily for storage purposes. I ought perhaps to add that in addition an experimental depot was started for work common to both naval and military services. It also is being temporarily used for storage purposes.
§ Sir C. HENRYCan the right hon. Gentleman state if the Ministry of Supply will have the disposal of these factories?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI do not think so. The two factories will still continue to do work for us. And I imagine will still remain with us.
Mr. JONESCan the right hon. Gentleman say when the factories are likely to be suspended and not used for storage purposes?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAMy hon. Friend will realise that we have a lot of valuable stores that easily deteriorate. These buildings cannot be given up for the moment, but will be turned over to peace work as soon as possible.